Lock-out.

Saracens and England number eight Billy Vunipola has warned that players could go on strike unless there is a reduction in the number of games top players are forced to play during the season.

Vunipola returns to the starting line-up for Saracens this weekend after undergoing shoulder surgery this summer, and claims he was word down by the increasing rugby schedule.

“Everyone complains that they keep pushing the salary cap up but we need more players,” he told The Times.

“It’s not about money, it’s about the toil we’re put through.

“Something is going to give. Something might happen where we follow the NFL or NBA, where they had a lock-out. I’m not saying I’m going to start it, but I feel like something needs to happen for the suits to realise these guys are serious.

“It comes down to how much we play. My body could not handle it. I might think I’m strong and tough but I’m not. I just got worn down.

“The suits are always talking about it but they have never played nine months in today’s rugby. It’s something I would love to change – play less.”